Imagine braving the icy Atlantic waves in the depths of winter—this is not just a fantasy but a reality for adventurous surfers at Montauk Point, a scene reminiscent of the cult classic film "Point Break." Here, enthusiastic locals are channeling their inner Patrick Swayze as they plunge into the frigid waters, even when temperatures hover around freezing.
Dr. John Kavanaugh, a seasoned winter surfer with a characteristic goatee and flowing hair, shared with The Post just before he ventured out into the windy chill of 26 degrees at Ditch Plains. "This can kill you," he warned, underscoring the risks involved in such an exhilarating pursuit. "There are days when you can see ice blocks in the water…some folks think we’re absolutely insane. They believe we're out of our minds."
Kavanaugh isn’t alone in this daring endeavor; every Wednesday afternoon last month, a group of about a dozen surfers took to the crisp waves against the scenic backdrop of Montauk’s bluffs. "When the surf is excellent, people flock here. On a great Saturday, it can get quite crowded," said the 60-year-old chiropractor, who has been surfing for decades. He noted a surprising trend: winter weekends are now becoming just as busy as summer ones.
The landscape of winter surfing has transformed from attracting only thrill-seekers and laid-back surfers to a more diverse crowd. "Surfing isn’t just for those without jobs or high school dropouts anymore," Kavanaugh joked, referencing the shift. "Now everyone is joining in; we’ve got doctors and lawyers catching waves alongside us."
He also pointed out that the recent increase in remote work has brought a new wave of surfers to the coast throughout the year. "It’s gotten busier with all the finance professionals now joining us during the winter months," Kavanaugh explained, having just come out of the water before returning to his chiropractic practice.
While the wintry beaches may be less populated by tourists, Kavanaugh and his fellow surfers have become accustomed to maneuvering through the additional bodies in the water, treating them almost like buoys. There exists a special camaraderie among these dedicated locals who brave the winter elements while Montauk settles into a quieter season.
Kavanaugh, embodying his version of "Bodhi," often brings along a hollowed log that doubles as a fire pit, turning beach outings into cozy cookouts with friends. "We celebrate life on the beach," he said with enthusiasm. "Big bonfires are the way to go! We set up cooking stations, enjoy hot toddies, tequila—you name it. It’s all part of the fun.
"I remember one Christmas a few years back; we were here for five or six straight days. It felt like a winter escape to Aspen—sunny weather, warm gatherings, laughter, and parties. It was just incredible!"
But diving into the ocean requires more than just nerves of steel; it demands a certain level of preparedness. Kavanaugh, the experienced surfer, noted, "It’s more challenging because the water is denser in winter, which means you can’t move as quickly. These wetsuits don’t allow for much agility. And with the cold, caution is crucial."
His words carry weight, especially considering he once faced near disaster while surfing towering 25-foot waves during a storm on July Fourth. He recalled the chaos around him, with three fellow surfers succumbing to panic and sickness.
For those brave enough to enter the icy waters off Montauk Point, there’s more than just thrill-seeking at play. "Yes, it’s tougher, but it’s stunning, and we catch better waves in winter," Kavanaugh asserted confidently. He feels invigorated by the chill, claiming he can handle the frigid water for several hours on a calm day. "The winter cold is refreshing. It’s a feeling you can’t get in summer—it truly wakes you up. You jump in and think, ‘Whoa!’ Then once you warm up, it’s a rewarding experience; it’s quite intense."
